MAVEN and Atlas V Pass Integrated Systems Test

This is a side view of an artist's conception of NASA's Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution MissioN (MAVEN) Mars orbiter.

Yesterday the MAVEN spacecraft, operating in unison with its United Launch Alliance Atlas V launch vehicle, passed a critical electrical test called the Integrated Systems Test. This completed the last major test scheduled prior to launch. The rocket and spacecraft are inside the Vertical Integration Facility at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 41, where spacecraft closeouts are in progress. On Thursday, MAVEN will be powered on for the last time before liftoff.